Kylian Mbappe has issued a statement pushing back against criticism regarding his approach to injury rehabilitation, insisting he is fully dedicated to returning to peak fitness for Real Madrid. The French forward is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury and faces a race against time to be fit for Sunday's crucial Clasico against Barcelona at the Nou Camp.
Barcelona hold an 11-point lead over their arch-rivals, meaning a win this weekend would secure the La Liga title for Hansi Flick's side. Real Madrid, on the verge of a trophyless season, need a victory to keep their faint hopes alive. Mbappe's potential absence would be a significant blow for Los Blancos, who have relied heavily on his standout performances this campaign.
The criticism stems from reports that Mbappe traveled to Italy with actress Ester Exposito last weekend while recovering from injury. Some Madrid fans and Spanish media questioned the seriousness of his rehabilitation, suggesting he was 'on holiday' ahead of the Clasico. In response, Mbappe's representatives released a statement to The Associated Press denying any wrongdoing.
“Part of the criticism is based on an overinterpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team,” the statement read. It also addressed speculation that Mbappe is saving himself for the upcoming World Cup with France, which kicks off in five weeks in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Despite the controversy, some Spanish outlets claim Mbappe visited Real Madrid's training facility on his day off to accelerate his recovery. Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa defended his player, saying, “Each player, in their free time, does what they consider appropriate; that is not my concern.” However, Arbeloa also delivered a stern message: “We have not built Real Madrid with players who play in tuxedos, but with players who finish the match with their shirts full of sweat and mud, based on effort, sacrifice, and perseverance. No player is bigger than Real Madrid.”
Madrid have remained tight-lipped about Mbappe's fitness for the weekend, but the forward's determination to prove his critics wrong is clear. As the Clasico looms, the spotlight remains on whether one of football's biggest stars can recover in time to help his team salvage something from a disappointing season.
Based on reporting from Mirror - Football.
